Local Government

A charter is...

• A constitution for a state

• A constitution for a county

• A constitution for a city

• A contract for a special district

Where is the county 'seat' for Sarasota County?

• Venice

• North Port

• Sarasota

• Longboat Key

Another word for neighborhood

• Charter

• Seat

• Home

• Ward

Describe Mayor-Council (strong mayor) form of local government

• The mayor is appointed by the State, holds executive power, is able to propose legislation and also veto the council.

• The mayor is elected by the People, holds executive power, is able to propose legislation and also veto the council.

• The mayor is hired by the city council and may be fired as well.

• The mayor is elected by the People, but holds no legislative and no executive power.

How many counties are in Florida?

• 13

• 67

• 40

• 120

How many municipalities are in Florida?

• 67

• 410

• 1,229

• 39,560

What does "Home Rule" mean?

• Cities are ruled by the Federal government.

• Cities are governed by the State Court system.

• Counties and cities write their own charters.

• Cities receive their power from the U.S. Constitution

Multiple perspectives are reflected during this type of political participation:

• voting in an election

• press conference with reporters

• State of the State address

• public meeting

What is another name for a city?

• Municipality

• Town

• Suburb

• Metropolitan Area

What are suburbs?

• Large cities

• Communities near and around a city

• Villages without government

• Underwater caves